Spring 2026 - REM 221 D100
Systems Thinking and the Environment (3)
Class Number: 4057
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Belinda Li
belinda_li@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
One of REM 100, GEOG 100, GEOG 111, or EVSC 100.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Introduces systems thinking in the context of environmental and sustainability challenges using system archetypes and system dynamics theory. Analytical and modeling techniques are applied to understand and project systems complexity. Emphasis is placed on using systems thinking concepts to finding solutions in a complex world. Students with credit for ENV 221 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Thinking in Systems: A Primer
Donella Meadows, 1st Edition
Required (No physical copy required).
Available at the SFU Library with full text access for up to 3 simultaneous users. Students read online or download PDF chapters from the library. https://sfu-primo.hosted.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/f/usv8m3/01SFUL_ALMA21281625280003611
ISBN: 9781603580557
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.